Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.
The Ohio Board of Building Standards adopts the OBC. Local jurisdictions may adopt additional requirements but cannot be less restrictive. Residential construction inspected by county building departments or certified inspectors.
Primary Code
Ohio Building Code (OBC)
Code Version
2017 OBC based on 2015 IBC with OH amendments
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
County building departments handle residential permits. State handles commercial plan review.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings on farms are generally exempt from the OBC. Buildings must be used exclusively for agricultural purposes.
Accessory structures under 200 sq ft typically exempt.
Lake-effect snow creates higher loads in northeast Ohio. Moderate wind loads. Low seismic risk.
Wind Load
90–115 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
15–40 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC with OH amendments
Version
2012 IECC
Energy code enforced statewide.
License Type
No state license required
Ohio does not require a state general contractor license. Some municipalities require local registration.
Front
25–40 ft
Side
5–15 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Varies by county and township zoning.
Frost depth 36 inches. Basements are very common.
Popular statewide. Standard permitting.
Strong agricultural exemption. Steel barns very common.
Growing rapidly in rural Ohio. Many counties are accepting. Lender awareness increasing.
Standard permit requirements.
Full OBC compliance required.
HOAs present in suburban developments near Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. Rural areas generally unrestricted.
Flood zones along the Ohio River, Lake Erie shoreline, and major tributaries.
Key counties with specific permit information for Ohio.
Full code enforcement.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,000
Full enforcement. Lake-effect snow loads.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,500
Full enforcement.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,000
Rural county. Streamlined process. Barndo-friendly.
Typical fees: $200 – $1,500
Ag Exemption AvailableAmish country. Practical enforcement. Agricultural focus.
Typical fees: $200 – $1,200
Ag Exemption AvailableVerify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
